Besifloxacin eye drops, suspension

What is this medicine?

BESIFLOXACIN (be si FLOX a sin) is a quinolone antibiotic. It is used to treat bacterial eye infections.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is only for use in the eye. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Shake well before using. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to anything, even your eye or fingertips. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close the eye gently to spread the drops. Your vision may blur for a few minutes. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course that is prescribed even if you think your condition is better. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 1 year for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• eye irritation, itching

• headache

• mild burning, redness or stinging in the eye

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without telling your doctor or health care professional.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Protect from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• contact lens wearer

• an unusual or allergic reaction to besifloxacin, other antibiotics or medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve in 2 to 3 days or if they get worse.

Do not wear contact lenses while you have any signs or symptoms of an eye infection. Ask your doctor or health care professional when you can start wearing your contacts again.

Stop using this medicine immediately if you notice signs of an allergic reaction.

To prevent the spread of infection, do not share eye products, towels, and washcloths with anyone else.